Nigerian-born British YouTuber and entertainer KSI has announced the purchase of former English Football League side Dagenham & Redbridge F.C., unveiling an ambitious long-term vision to take the club to the Premier League.
KSI, whose real name is Olajide Olatunji, revealed the takeover in a three-minute video shared on social media. The montage featured nostalgic clips from his FIFA gaming series—where he once managed the club virtually—as well as highlights of the team in action.
“I’m so excited to start this journey,” he wrote. “It’s gonna be a rollercoaster for sure but I hope to bring Dagenham and Redbridge back to the glory days.”
Formed in 1992, the East London-based club plays its home matches at Victoria Road. The Daggers were relegated from the National League last season and currently compete in the National League South, where they sit mid-table.
A lifelong supporter of Arsenal F.C., KSI described the acquisition as “surreal” and driven by a desire to restore excitement and pride to the club.
“Years ago, I saw the excitement, the happiness, the joy. I want to bring that back and then surpass it. I want the place to be pumping, I want it to be rocking, I want it to be an event whenever you come here.”
Acknowledging the difference between gaming and real-life ownership, he said while managing a club in a video game was challenging, running a professional side would require patience and strategic investment.
KSI outlined a realistic short-term objective of securing promotion back to the National League before setting sights on higher divisions. He emphasized plans to strengthen the squad, improve performance levels, and build deeper ties with the local community.
Seeking to reassure long-time supporters, he pledged accessibility and transparency in his role as co-owner.
“You guys have been here way longer than I have, and I know to some of you it might be scary, me being one of the owners, but I am reachable.”
The high-profile takeover marks a new chapter for the Daggers, with renewed attention and ambition surrounding the East London outfit.
